How Long do Roses Last?

Last Updated: September 18, 2017

By
Erica Daniels

As one of the most notable symbols of love and romance, it’s no surprise that the rose is also one of the most admired flowers. This fragrant bloom comes in a wide variety of colors, each with its own special significance. However, color isn’t the only important factor to consider when purchasing roses. Have you ever thought about how long they might last?

Whether you’re looking for a ravishing bouquet for your one and only, a few fresh blooms for the coffee table or an arrangement just because, you’ll want your flowers to stay fresh for as long as possible. Exactly how long is that? Read on to find out.

How long do cut roses last?

Roses should last up to one week and possibly longer after being cut. If you follow proper flower care tips including cutting the stems, using flower food and changing out the water every few days, you can increase the lifespan of your roses. Getting your roses into a vase and attending to them properly will allow you more time to enjoy your bouquet.

Taking care of your bouquet will not only ensure the longevity of your blooms, but will also make sure your roses are looking their best. Although, not all roses are created equal and your flower care isn’t the only factor to influence the lifetime of a rose.

How long a rose might last will also depend on:

The type of rose

The length of time it went without water after being cut

The health of the plant from which it was cut

There are also a few surprising tactics that may help ensure your bouquet of roses lasts longer. Think bleach, soda and more! Check out our guide on how to make flowers last longer to get the most out of your roses.

How long do roses last without water?

As one of the hardier flowers, roses can last a few hours out of water.This timeframe may vary especially if your roses are affected by environmental conditions like heat or humidity. If you’re planning on putting your roses in a vase, you shouldn’t keep them without water for too long, or it can affect their bloom. On the other hand, if you’re taking a note from ABC’s The Bachelor and handing out a long stemmed rose, just be sure to do so within a few hours.

How long do rose petals last?

Fresh rose petals will usually last up to three days after being plucked from the flower. You can also dry your flowers or petals after you have used them and save them for as long as you’d like. As a popular decoration for weddings and some of life’s best celebrations, flower petals are often dried and saved as a memory or keepsake. Dried rose petals can also be used as an ingredient in fun DIY’s like bath bombs and even potpourri. Use our guide on how to dry flowers for more information on how to save your own.

The sad truth is that your fresh roses aren’t going to last forever. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to enjoy them for as long as you can! Get yourself a fresh bouquet of roses just because. Or give them as a gift; fragrant florals are always a welcome surprise!